The science of building construction and design is evolving more quickly than ever before. The "2009 Update" of this outstanding text builds on the previous version and incorporates the latest updates available. Written by an author team with decades of experience in architecture, building construction, engineering, and teaching, Building Construction: Principles, Materials & Systems 2009 Update is a comprehensive and fully illustrated introduction to construction methods and materials. Continuing on with the books unique organization--Principles of Construction are covered in Part One and Materials and Systems of Construction are covered in Part Two--allows for complete coverage of both the basic principles and specific materials and systems of building construction. This organization fosters a real understanding of general concepts and develops skills that will sustain over time. Emphasizing a visual approach to learning, it includes more than 1,400 original illustrations and an extra large trim size (9" x 12") that provides an open and inviting layout that students are sure to appreciate.